MILWAUKEE - It took 5 extra minutes, but the Milwaukee Panthers did just enough Saturday night in Milwaukee to earn their second win in a row and move to 18-8 overall and 12-4 in the Horizon League.
The Oakland Golden Grizzlies (11-16, 9-7) held a 50-40 lead at half and were able to keep the scrappy Panthers at arm's length for much of the 2nd half - but it was a late charge led by Vin Baker Jr. that keyed Milwaukee's comeback, and a huge three by B.J. Freeman in the extra period that was ultimately enough to earn the comeback win.
Baker and Ahmad Rand led the Panthers each with 16, and Milwaukee had 4 total players in double figures. Trey Townsend led the Oakland Golden Grizzlies with 21 points, as Jalen Moore and Blake Lampman each scored 19 and 18, respectively, for Oakland.
Oakland started hot from the field, shooting 70% from three in the first half, but ultimately cooled down to shoot 33% for the game from long range and 40% from the field. Milwaukee finished shooting 50% from the field and led the rebounding margin 39-31.
Milwaukee now at 12-4 in Horizon League play sits one half game back of leader Youngstown St., who plays Sunday.
The Panthers will travel to Youngstown for a showdown on Thursday.